About Read to Succeed
Q: How big are the classes?
A: This is a one-on-one program. Your tutor will work directly with you, and there won’t be any other students in your sessions.
Q: When do classes meet? Do I have to come every day?
A: You and your tutor will decide when to meet. To keep up the pace, you should plan to meet with your tutor at least once per week.
Q: How long is the program?
A: This depends on your personal goals. You and your tutor will decide together that you’ve met those goals.
Q: Is there homework?
A: Your tutor will probably give you some work to do in between meetings.
About Costs and Accessibility
Q: Is it free?
A: Yes. Read to Succeed is supported by funding from the Daniel Boone Regional Library Foundation.
Q: Do I need to buy books or materials?
A: No. Everything will be supplied to you for free. Also, keep in mind that the library is full of books and the Read to Succeed team can recommend books for your reading level.
Q: Do you provide child care?
A: No.
Q: Is transportation available?
A: No. However, if you find yourself facing transportation difficulties, our Community Resource Specialist at socialwork@dbrl.org or (573) 817-7031 can help you find free or low cost transportation.
About Learning Goals
Q: What books will I be reading?
A: You set your own goals and help direct what you learn, along with your tutor. At first, most of your readings will come from the “Laubach Way to Reading” series. As you and your tutor become comfortable with your reading level, you will decide together on other readings. Books will change as you learn and grow.
Q: Can this help me with my job applications?
A: Yes, building literacy skills will help you with filling out forms like job applications. You and your tutor can work on job applications during your sessions.
Q: Will I be able to help my kids with their homework?
A: It may be a slow process, but you can eventually be a good resource for your children when they have reading homework. And you will understand more about the barriers kids face as they learn to read.
Q: Does this program help with math, too, or just reading and writing?
A: This is a reading and writing program.
Q: Can I work on writing emails or using a computer?
A: The library provides computers where you can work on email or other writing tasks.
About Progress and Outcomes
Q: How long will it take me to learn to read better?
A: You will learn at your own pace. Much depends upon your level of commitment to yourself and to your own learning.
Q: How will I know if I am improving?
A: Your tutor will monitor your progress and adjust the pace to meet your needs. You will have opportunities to ask your tutor about your progress.
Q: Does this program prepare me for the GED/HiSET?
A: This is not a GED or HiSET program, but it may prepare you for one.
Q: Will it help me get a better job?
A: Learning to read or improving your reading skills improves your opportunities in the job market. According to the Barbara Bush Foundation, people with proficient levels of literacy earn over $20,000 more per year than people with low literacy. The level of income can make a big difference in the health and well-being of a family.
Personal Concerns
Q: What if I’m embarrassed because I can’t read well?
A: Your tutor is trained to understand the challenges faced by adults learning to read. They take their jobs very seriously and will be sensitive to your concerns.
Q: What if I make mistakes?
A: Making mistakes is an important part of the learning process. Your tutor understands this and will be supporting you. In fact, it is actually when we make mistakes and fail that we are learning.
Q: Am I too old to learn?
A: No! As long as you are determined and approach the program with a positive attitude, you are never too old to learn.
Q: Can I still join if my English isn’t strong?
A: This program is designed for people whose primary language is English. The Columbia Area Career Center and City of Refuge offer programs for adults designed for non-English speakers.